Enjoy a family brunch

ALL SHORESSTATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — When most people think about dining out, they envision a dinner at a dimly lit restaurant. They imagine a tempting menu filled with sophisticated entrees that they’d never attempt at home. They anticipate a hefty price tag.

Or, perhaps your vision of a great meal out is less ambitious — a laid-back lunch that costs less but provides a welcome midday respite.

Whatever comes to mind, there is one meal that most Americans pass on until Sunday rolls around — and that is brunch. But beautiful weather makes me think about this oft-overlooked option, and truly, it can be enjoyed any day of the week when time allows. Here are some great local suggestions.

FAMILY-STYLE

Have you ever tried dim sum? This Chinese brunch delight, according to Wikipedia, features traditional dishes that are served in small portions. The offerings may include meat, seafood and vegetables, as well as desserts and fruit. The items are usually served in a small steamer basket or on a small plate and are eaten family-style.

You can find dim sum shops on Staten Island. Try China Chalet in Great Kills on the South Shore (4326 Amboy Rd. 718-984-8044) for dishes like steamed shrimp dumplings and a hot and sour soup that will knock you off your chair. Or visit New Tomotachi Wok in Grant City on the East Shore (2226 Hylan Blvd., 718-667-6868) where the pot stickers (a type of dumpling) are drenched in a thick garlic sauce. Or indulge in the restaurant’s traditional Japanese menu, which includes sushi favorites like spicy tuna; there’s even a Philly Cream Cheese roll.

FOR MOM AND DAD

The traditional Vietnamese hideaway in Graniteville, Pho Mac, (1407 Richmond Ave.) serves up amazing value. There are 19 varieties of pho — a clove-scented soup of beef broth, rice noodles, and, in some instances, tender slices of beef. You should also try Banh Mi Ca Ri Ga, a sweet and spicy curry stew made with chicken and coconut milk, accompanied by bread. To add a little romance to your outing, head upstairs where there are booths. Here, you and your significant other can spend some time catching up on each other’s lives without interruptions from the kids.

OLD FAVORITE

The International House of Pancakes’ (IHOP) tagline says it best: “Come hungry, leave happy.” That is exactly what happens when you pay this place a visit. For brunch, there are several varieties of pancakes; eggs served any which way you like, and a nice choice of complementary breakfast meats. But IHOP (there’s one at 935 Richmond Ave., Graniteville) serves up more than pancakes, and caters to every preference, including those who are health conscious. I suggest trying one of their salads. If you don’t want to pay for more than your kids can finish, check out the restaurant’s smaller portions on the kids’ menu.

HIGH-END EATS

If you are looking to luxuriate over a classy brunch in a hotel setting, head to the West Shore to Lorenzo’s in the Hilton Garden Inn (1100 South Ave., Bloomfield). You will be seated in a bright, spacious room filled with the aroma of delicious food and the sound of great jazz. The restaurant’s special Sunday brunch menu is served between noon and 2 p.m. It includes a Mimosa or Bloody Mary cocktail, an open buffet complete with carving stations, plus several desserts. The cost is $29.95 per person, plus tax.

BRANCH OUT

For those of you interested in experimenting and giving your family a taste of something unique, check out New Asha, a Sri Lankan restaurant on the North Shore(322 Victory Blvd., Tompkinsville). This southeastern Asian food is spicy, and a real culinary delight. Dishes include mutton, egg-fried fish and the very traditional Plain Appam with Seeni Sambo (a rice-based dish served with lentil-based soup).